Guerneville is a census-designated and unincorporated town located in the Russian River Valley of Sonoma County in California, United States. In the 2020 census, the population of Guerneville was 4,747.
The town was founded in the 1850s, and it has been a popular tourist destination for people. The town is popular for its several wine-tasting wineries and liberal and natural environment.
In the past, Guerneville was famous for the logging community established in the late 19th century.
The beautiful town features cozy cabins, campgrounds, vacation rentals, and unique resorts. It is also home to quality restaurants, food trucks, old-school cafes, and over 50 wineries.
Guerneville is a hub for stunning beaches that rent beach chairs, kayaks, canoes, inner tubes, and umbrellas.
Are you planning to explore Guerneville? Here are the top things to do in Guerneville, CA.
Things to Do in Guerneville, CA
1. Johnson’s Beach
Johnson’s Beach
One of the best things to do in Guerneville, CA, is to spend a day at the beautiful Johnson’s Beach.
Johnson’s Beach has existed in Guerneville for about one hundred years. The Beach has stunning scenery and excellent amenities and is also very hospitable.
These features have made Johnson’s Beach very popular among the natives and visitors.
Aside from being family-friendly, Johnson’s Beach provides an excellent area for having fun in the Russian River, camping, or just lazing around.
It also has a roped-off pond for smaller kids and novice swimmers. There are boats and inner tubes that you can rent for other fun activities in the water.
The views are stunning, and since the Beach is large, there is plenty of space to find your patch of pebbles.
The vibe here is exciting and lovely; it is, without a doubt, a Guerneville Summer tradition to visit.
The Beach also has a snack bar that offers wine, burgers, ice cream, beer, and hotdogs if you feel like getting a snack.
Address: 16217 First St, Guerneville, CA 95446, United States
2. Main Street Bistro
Among the top things to do in Guerneville is to eat at the Award Winning Main Street Bistro.
Main Street Bistro is an award-winning music and Dining restaurant in Guerneville.
This restaurant is the most famous and longest-running dining and music place in Guerneville.
This relaxing spot has a different food menu that caters to lunch and dinner. Main Street Bistro’s menu has a selection of northern California style of food and Italian style of meals.
The ingredients used in making these meals are local and sourced from the Bistro’s organic garden.
Main Street Bistro is a casual, comfortable, and colorful place where you can enjoy the night while surrounded by good food and music.
At the restaurant, you will be offered craft beers made in the town, signature cocktails, and a different selection of wines. Main Street Bistro also features karaoke on Mondays and entertainment on most nights.
Address: 16280 Main St, Guerneville, CA 95446, United States
3. Armstrong Redwood State Reserve
Armstrong Redwood State Reserve
Armstrong Redwood State Reserve is one of the best places to visit in Guerneville, CA.
Armstrong Redwood State Reserve features several picnic facilities, self-guided nature walks, and a visitor center.
When entering this Reserve, you can drive through or walk in using the parking lot at the park entrance so you can experience the effect of the redwoods.
Armstrong Redwood State Reserve shares a common entrance with another destination called the Austin Creek State Recreation Area.
Camping is not allowed at Armstrong Redwood State Reserve.
Address: 17000 Armstrong Woods Rd, Guerneville, CA 95446, United States
4. Cooprider Studio Art Gallery
If you are a fan of art, one of the best things to do in Guerneville, CA, is to visit Cooprider Studio Art Gallery.
Cooprider Studio Art Gallery is located in downtown Guerneville. This tourist destination features artworks made by Karen Cooprider and Cindy Hawkins.
Karen Cooprider specializes in abstract paintings created on metals and canvas. At the same time, Cindy Hawkins deals with digital art made on aluminum and acrylic surfaces.
The artworks in the Gallery are unique and inspiring. The owners are lovely and do so much for our local community.
While the studio engages in the first Friday Art Walk monthly, they also host guest artists occasionally.
The owners are incredibly welcoming and are determined to help the town through their art. You should not hesitate to visit Cooprider Art Studio and look at their amazing artwork.
Address: 16216 Main St, Guerneville, CA 95446, United States
5. Garey Farrel Vineyard & Winery
Garey Farrel Vineyard & Winery is located in the center of the stunning Russain River Valley, 30 minutes from Guerneville.
The Winery offers a proud history of winemaking in a rare comfortable environment.
The Winery owner, Gary Farrell, deals in Pinot and Russian River Valley Chardonnay, but he is also known to make Zinfandel and Sauvignon Blanc.
Although it was in 1982 that Gary Farrel started producing wines, it was not until 2000 that he established a Winery on top of a hill overlooking the Russian River Valley.
The staff at the Winery are not only dedicated to their work but are also civil. So if you want a tour of this beautiful place and a taste of their wines, make sure you create some time and visit.
They also offer virtual tours, so you can try that option.
Address: 10701 Westside Rd, Healdsburg, CA 95448, United States
6. Guerneville River Park
Guerneville River Park
Guerneville River Park is a 5.3-acre park located on the south side of the Russian River.
Guerneville River Park has a non-motorized boat used for paddle boards and kayaking. It is also used to access the Russian River.
Additionally, the Park features trails, picnic sites, a lawn area, a restroom, a drinking fountain, and walkways.
The picnic sites at this destination operate on a first-come, first-serve basis. Please do not bring alcohol to the park because they are prohibited.
Also, barbecues and fires are prohibited outside the allocated picnic areas. Kayaking in Guerneville River Park is one of the fun things to do in Guerneville, CA.
Address: 13811 Drake Rd, Guerneville, CA 95446, United States
7. Guerneville 5 & 10,
Guerneville 5 & 10
Guerneville 5 & 10 is a dime shop located in downtown Guerneville. The store has existed along the Russian River since 1949.
Guerneville 5 & 10 is a welcoming and warm store frequently visited by loyal customers and tourists. The store has various items ranging from toys to collectibles and even candies.
If you plan to visit the beach, the store has items you will need to have fun with, such as towels, flip-flops, baby floats, clothes, and river clothes.
Aside from beach wears, Guerneville 5 & 10 also sells various greeting cards, including for weddings, anniversaries, and birthdays.
Furthermore, you will find sewing materials, canvas, paint brushes and colors, knitting, and crotchet materials.
You can buy craft kits and materials if you love to craft.
Address: 16252 Main St, Guerneville, CA 95446, United States
8. Boon eat and drink
Boon eat and drink
Boon eat and drink in Guerneville, California, is a modern bistro boasting a simple but delicious menu.
This restaurant has a simple but mouthwatering menu of salads, small plates, and seasonal entrees.
Additionally, the restaurant uses fresh produce, artisan cheese, and local meats to make the food because they believe that fresh produce will give the food a good taste.
When you visit the restaurant, you can also try a glass of local wine made from the Russian River Region and beers from Sonoma and Mendocino County.
The restaurant uses mainly local ingredients for its meals and products from local farms and businesses.
Their menu also includes flash-fried Brussels sprouts and delicious chili braised pork. Boon eat and drink was featured in Food & Wine and Sunset Magazine to acknowledge its warm ambiance and flavorful meal.
Since reservations are not taken, make sure you visit the restaurant early to get a seat.
Address: 16248 Main St, Guerneville, CA 95446, United States
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9. Austin Creek State Recreation Area
Austin Creek State Recreation Area
Austin Creek State Recreation Area is among the best places to visit in Guerneville, CA.
Austin Creek State Recreation Area shares a common passageway with Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve.
This 6,000 acres of land recreation area features open woodlands, meadows, and rolling hills.
Austin Creek Recreational Area has twenty miles of hiking trails you can explore when you visit.
Austin Creek recreational area also houses the Bullfrog Pond Campground with twenty-three campsites.
You should note that the campground does not allow a large group of people or vehicles over twenty feet.
Address: 17000 Armstrong Woods Rd, Guerneville, CA 95446, United States
10. Oli Gallery
Oli Gallery
Guerneville is a community filled with art, so don’t be surprised if you discover more than one gallery.
Oli Gallery, located in the center of Guerneville, exhibits several original works for people who love art to admire and buy.
Oli Gallery was founded by Donovan Smandra, a self-taught artist and native of Sonoma County.
The Gallery feature artworks belonging to the town’s local artists and sculptures and even works of artist around the globe.
Although the Gallery is available online, you can visit in person on Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays.
Address: 16215 Main St, Guerneville, CA 95446, United States
11. Big Bottom Market
Big Bottom Market
Why don’t you visit the café that Oprah Winfrey loves during your vacation in Guerneville? Oh yes, that famous Oprah Winfrey.
Big Bottom Market is a café in Guerneville famous for its trademark award-winning biscuits.
In 2016, the café received national acclaim when it was picked as one of Oprah Winfrey’s Favorite Things.
Big Bottom Market offers top-notch sandwiches, breakfast fare for the entire day, and salads. It also offers wines and craft coffee.
The sandwiches are made with local and fresh produce such as craft grilled cheese, classic Cubanos, feta and garlic aioli, and smashed chickpeas. At the same time, the biscuits are made with toppings like black forest ham and smoked salmon.
They are also served with butter and jam, soaked in honey and mascarpone.
Address: 16228 Main St, Guerneville, CA 95446, United States
12. SUP Odyssey
SUP odyssey is a group of outfitters that teach people how to paddle board, rent out boats and offer self-guided trips along the Russian river.
The trip usually starts from Steelhead Country park and ends at the Schoolhouse Campground.
This downriver trip covers 4.2 miles. When you get to the beach, search for a truck with a SUP ODYSSEY sign.
In addition, the trip involves a shuttle back to the parking space. So don’t hesitate to add the trip to your checklist of what to do in Guerneville, CA.
Address: 12600 River Rd, Guerneville, CA 95446, United States
13. Korbel Delicatessen and Market
Korbel Delicatessen and Market is situated at Korbel California Champagne Cellars.
This destination is considered one of the best-kept secrets of the Russian River by a lot of people.
You can visit Koebel Delicatessen to relax and take a break while enjoying the award-winning delicious food and nice atmosphere.
The menu includes sandwiches, handmade salads, and other special and prepared items.
Korbel Delicatessen and Market also has lunch boxes and wine snacks.
If you and your family or friends are in a hurry, you can call ahead. Visitors can also buy gourmet cookbooks and epicurean gifts here.
Address: 13250 River Rd, Guerneville, CA 95446, United States
14. Porter-Bass Vineyard and Winery
Another Winery you can visit in Guerneville is Porter-Bass Vineyard and Winery.
Porter-Bass Vineyard and Winery offers tours and tasting daily, but you must book an appointment.
You can either pay to taste the wine or use the money to buy a bottle of wine. However, it is important to know that the Porter-Bass Vineyard does not accommodate more than eight people at a time.
The wines made at this Winery are described as balanced and elegant by visitors. This Winery is also fortunate to have a cold climate which helps the growth of the grape.
Address: 11750 Mays Canyon Rd, Guerneville, CA 95446, United States
15. Pee Wee Golf & Arcade
If you love to golf, one of the fun things to do in Guerneville is to visit the historic Pee Wee Golf & Arcade.
Pee Wee Golf is a miniature golf course near the Russian River. The golf course established in 1949 has been a destination for entertainment and fun for decades.
Pee Wee Golf & Arcade is an example of an old-fashioned miniature golf course that features fanatical dragons, colored dinosaurs, and old-school arcade games.
This privately owned attraction underwent renovation in 2011 to ensure that it remained in excellent condition.
This tourist attraction is suitable for all ages, so come along with your kids. Pee Wee Golf & Arcade closes at 10 pm, so ensure you visit it before that time.
Address: 16155 Drake Rd, Guerneville, CA 95446, United States
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16. June Bug Skin & Body
Among what to do in Guerneville, CA, is to have a spa day at June Bug Skin & Body.
It is located in the center of Sonoma County’s Russian River area. June Bug Skin & Body is a soothing and cozy space where you can relax while giving yourself the beauty treatment you deserve.
This destination offers full body waxing, facials, spray tanning, and eyelash extensions. The workers at June Bug Skin & Beauty are always up to date with the latest trends to ensure that they offer the best services to their customers.
All the products used at June Bug skin & Body are high quality. They have a unique type of facial called the celluma LED Light Therapy that promotes strong and healthy skin.
They also use natural ingredients that can nourish your skin. Furthermore, the spa salon offers healing massages, aromatherapy, chakra work to relieve stress, meditation, and cupping.
Address: 14034 Armstrong Woods Road, Guerneville, CA 95446, United States
17. Guerneville Bank Club
Guerneville Bank Club is one of the best places to visit in Guerneville, CA.
Guerneville Bank Club, situated in the building of the Bank of Guerneville, was built in 1921.
It is a retail and gallery space that offers art shows, homemade ice cream, handmade pies, curated retail, history of the Russian River Historical Society, and wine tasting.
Guerneville Bank Club got its name from an old bar called The Bank Club. The sisters Leandra and Jazmin behind Nimble &Finn’s Ice cream offer handcrafted and organic flavored ice creams here.
The Chile Pies Baking Company offers freshly-baked pies like apricot, strawberry rhubarb, and chocolate peanut butter.
The Russian River Historical Society is integral to the Guerneville Bank Club.
The society has an exhibition space showcasing exhibits about Guerneville’s interesting pasts. They also sell postcards and books.
A photo booth is also featured in the original bank vault at Guerneville Bank Club.
Address: 16290 Main St, Guerneville, CA 95446, United States
18. Pegasus Theater Company
The Pegasus Theatre Company is a voluntary nomadic establishment that entertains people in the community and neighboring towns in Sonoma County.
The Company was established in 1998 to perform deep and touching shows that enrich and entertain the community.
It also strives to preserve the region’s origin. The performances are often held in the lower part of the Russian River and other places.
The Pegasus Theater Company also holds workshops and classes to motivate community members to learn about theater skills.
Address: Guerneville, California, United States
19. Guerneville Taco Truck
Guerneville Taco Truck
After visiting some exciting destinations, why don’t you have a little taco snack at Guerneville Taco Truck?
Guerneville Taco Truck can be found parked at the Safeway parking lot. For about 30 years, the Vazquez’s has been making delicious tacos and California burritos in the town.
Guerneville Taco Truck began when the owner Porfirio Vazquez came to the US to work as a farm worker at the two local wineries- Korbel and Sterling.
Porfirio Vazquez purchased the taco truck in 1992, so he could carry the meal from his original hometown to the new one since the Russian River area did not have Mexican meals.
Address: 16632 Main St, Guerneville, CA 95446, United States
20. Korbel Champagne Cellars
Do you love wines? If yes, why don’t you visit the Korbel Champagne Cellars for a tour?
The Korbel Champagne Cellars is a wine business owned by two different families. Korbel Champagne Cellars features a wine shop, a Deli that opens every day, and a tasting room.
If you are interested in touring the site, you can take part in the Wednesday and weekend tours during summer and fall. During the winter and spring season, the tour holds on Wednesdays and Thursdays.
A tour of the winery lasts for fifty minutes and includes an exploration of the champagne cellars, the history museums, and a wine tasting.
Address: 13250 River Rd, Guerneville, CA 95446, United States
21. Coffee Bazaar
Coffee Bazaar has existed in Guerneville for more than thirty years. This café is passionate about offering good coffee and simple but tasty meals.
Aside from excellent coffee offered at Coffee Bazaar, they also offer freshly baked goods and other breakfast and lunch options:
The staff are also fast, efficient civil, and welcoming to visitors. Coffee Bazaar holds a public coffee tasting every Tuesday and Friday at 2 pm. This tasting is for customers who are curious about the various coffee origins.
Address: 14045 Armstrong Woods Rd, Guerneville, CA 95446, United States
22. Arista Winery
Another Winery that you can tour when you visit Guerneville is Arista Winery. The Winery is located at Healdsburg, which is 30 minutes from Guerneville.
Al and Janis McWilliam, the owners, established Aristas Winery in 2002. However, their sons, Mark and Ben, took over the family business in 2012.
Arista Winery specializes in Russian River Valley Noir, which is obtained from the best vineyards in the town.
The Winery also makes Riesling, viognier, Zinfandel, Gewurztaminer, and Chardonnay. In addition, Arista Winery has a tasting room surrounded by a Japanese water garden.
Address: 7015 Westside Rd, Healdsburg, CA 95448, United States
23. Pat’s International
Pat’s International
Another café you can visit in Guerneville is Pat’s Café. Pat’s Café has existed in downtown Guerneville for nearly 80 years. This family-friendly café focuses on breakfast and lunch at reasonable prices.
Pat’s International was a soda fountain before its current status. Some meals served here are homemade donuts, a Korean fried tofu sandwich, corned beef Reubens, and tomatillo pozole.
The interior of this café features old-school pieces of furniture, a rainbow-lit ceiling, and an old-school rimmed mural of the fishing holes of the Russian River area.
When you visit Pat’s International, keep your eyes on every minor detail, or you will miss everything.
Even the surfaces in this place have a story, such as the “pecky cypress” wood on the walls and the geometric plastic ceiling tiles.
Address: 16236 Main St, Guerneville, CA 95446, United States
24. Doran Beach
Doran Beach
Doran Beach is a relaxing and fun place you can visit alone or with your loved one.
Aside from Johnson’s Beach, this location is another perfect location to enjoy the soothing sound of the ocean. The Beach is 36 minutes from Guerneville.
This 2-mile Beach is located on Bodega Bay. It is suitable for playing in the sand, flying kites, bird-watching and picnicking.
When you visit Doran Beach, you can even catch crabs and spot sea lions and whales.
The Beach also features a rock jetty, a famous spot for fishing.
There are also over 120 tents. RV campsites and beach wheelchairs are available throughout the year.
The campgrounds are available throughout the year and have excellent camping facilities.
Address: Doran Beach Rd, CA 94923, United States
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Plan Your Trip to Guerneville
Guerneville has been a vacation destination for tourists since the 1800s.
To this day, Guerneville continues to attract visitors to tour its stunning attractions. This carefully curated list will guide you when you visit.
Have a fun trip!